Ever since Formula 1 confirmed earlier this year that General Motors would bring Cadillac onto the grid as the 11th team in 2026, fans have been wondering who will drive for them. That mystery now looks closer to being solved, with news emerging from the team’s Silverstone base.

Sergio Perez had been strongly linked with a move, and some reports even suggested his signing could be announced at the Italian Grand Prix in Monza. But it appears he may not be the first name unveiled. Instead, attention has turned to the Dutch Grand Prix at Zandvoort, where Cadillac are expected to reveal their opening driver choice after the summer break.

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That choice is set to be Valtteri Bottas, as RacingNews365 reports. The Finnish driver has reportedly finalised a deal to join Cadillac for their debut season. An official announcement is expected before early September, confirming Bottas as the team’s first recruit. With 10 career wins and 67 podium finishes, plus years of experience at Mercedes and Sauber, he would bring proven ability and leadership to the new outfit.

Bottas may also begin working with Cadillac before the 2026 campaign kicks off. The team is planning track sessions later this year to prepare its crew, using older machinery since it currently lacks a Formula 1 car of its own. Ferrari engines will power the cars at first, until GM develops its own unit. As for the second seat, Perez remains a strong contender, while Yuki Tsunoda, Felipe Drugovich or Alex Dunne have also been mentioned as a possible option.